Two or Three drivers to share second Manor seat (2nd Update)
02/17/16 UPDATE
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| Haryanto has the most money and would get the most races in the 2nd Manor seat |
(GMM) Speculation Manor could be about to split the final race seat on the 2016 grid three ways appears wide of the mark.
That is because British newspapers the Telegraph and Daily Mail are reporting that Briton Will Stevens, reportedly among the three contenders to be Pascal Wehrlein's teammate, has dropped out of the race.
London's Telegraph said 24-year-old Stevens, who raced for the backmarker team throughout 2015, is being replaced by Indonesian Rio Haryanto, whose government-linked backing reportedly tallies almost $15 million.
"Stevens is likely to try racing elsewhere, perhaps in America, before seeking again to make it in formula one," correspondent Daniel Johnson wrote.
There are also rumors Stevens could now be looking to move to Williams to be reserve driver, replacing the recently-departed Adrian Sutil.
Johnson added that confirmation of GP2 driver Haryanto's deal is "expected in the next few days".
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| His check wasn't big enough for a full season but at least Rossi 'might' get to drive in the 4 North and South America races |
02/15/16 (GMM) Manor may have come up with a novel solution to the reported three-way battle to become Pascal Wehrlein's teammate in 2016.
It is believed Rio Haryanto, Alexander Rossi and Will Stevens are all substantially backed by sponsors as they push to secure the final place on this year's grid.
But according to a report in Finland's Ilta Sanomat newspaper, Manor might be about to say 'yes' to the entire trio.
"There are rumors in F1 circles that the second car could be raced by all three drivers during the season," the report declared.
Ilta Sanomat explained that, with F1 to stage a record 21 grands prix this year, Haryanto, Rossi and Stevens could each sign a seven-race deal with Manor.
Indonesian Haryanto, a government-backed GP2 driver, will reportedly contest the first few races and then re-appear for the Asian rounds later in 2016.
American Rossi would race mainly throughout North and South America, while the bulk of Stevens' 2016 program will be in Europe.
Ilta Sanomat said the deal will cost each driver about EUR 5 million.
The team's plan would be allowed by the regulations, with article 26.1 reading: "During a season, each team will be permitted to use four drivers. Any new driver may score points in the championship."
Manor is being tipped for a significant step forwards in 2016, thanks to its new Mercedes power units and further technical support provided by Williams.
"Manor will make a big step up and not only because of the engine," said Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff, who was instrumental to Wehrlein securing the first race seat.
"I have confidence that the car and driver will have highlights and be a solid midfield runner," he added.